Hammock spiders, or Pityohyphantes costatus, are part of the Linyphiinae sheetweb family of spiders.

These spiders are known for making a thick hammock style of web to catch insects in. Then they lurk at the corner of the web, waiting for prey to get snared by it. Hammock spiders have pale prosoma (the part with the legs) with a dark stripe running vertically down it. The back abdomen part is pale tan with a symmetrical darker brown pattern running down its length.

Here is a series of photos of one in 2010 which was inside our solar powered light. Click for a larger version. We "fed" this one an annoying little gnat :)

Conquering Your Fear of Spiders
Do spiders cause you stress? Many cultures treasure spiders as bringing luck and wealth! Learn to conquer your fear of spiders. Bring serenity and joy into your life. It all starts with the first step!